The Limited Scope ARRT Exam Spine module is composed of 25 questions. Again, there may be a few questions on subject matter that we have not gone over. Some of the topics, along with the approximate number of questions on each topic you may see are listed below. The radiographic positions and projections may include:
Cervical Spine - 8 questions
Thoracic Spine - 6 questions
Lumbar Spine - 8 questions
Sacrum and coccyx - 2 questions
Sacroiliac Joints - 1 question
It is recommended that you review the anatomy sheets, positioning sheets, and your textbook before taking the practice quiz. Almost all information you will see on the ARRT exam will be found in one of those 3 areas.
Reading - This is just suggested reading as you've already had these assigned during the previous course. The intent is just to review.
Spine anatomy review:
C-spine:
T-spine:
L-spine:
Additional Info
C-spine - it is important that you see all 7 vertebra on the lateral view. In a trauma situation, the lateral is the first image performed. If all 7 cannot be seen, a Swimmer's View is performed so you can see the 7th cervical and 1st thoracic vertebra junction.
Be familiar with the breathing lateral T-spine. Instead of a higher mA setting and shorter exposure, it uses a smaller mA and longer exposure time. I've used up to 10 seconds in an exposure. Most of the time you do not want long exposures as it introduces motion. In a breathing lateral T-spine, you can use motion to your advantage. By having the patient breathing during exposure, you 'blur' out the ribs and lung markings making it easier to visualize the spine.
Understand why you flex the patient's knees on an AP Lumbar spine. It straightens the spine (reducing foreshortening). A PA Lumbar spine accomplishes the same thing. By laying the patient in a prone position, you are straightening the spine. AP is usually performed as it is generally more comfortable for the patient.
For the sacrum and coccyx, if you see a question on the ARRT exam, it will most likely be asking about central ray angulation. For the sacrum, you will angle the CR cephalad. For the coccyx, you will angle the CR caudad.